A Virginia judge has dismissed felony charges against former Prince William County Registrar Michele White, who was accused of misconduct in the 2020 election. The decision came after state prosecutors revealed that a key witness had changed his story. The charges of corrupt conduct and making a false statement were dropped, but White still faces trial next month on a misdemeanor charge of willful neglect of duty.
The specifics of what prosecutors believe White did wrong have not been publicly disclosed. However, court records indicate that the case revolves around 2020 election returns, including the presidential race. Prince William election officials have previously stated that discrepancies in the results were reported to state officials but would not have affected the outcome of any race.
The case against White was brought by Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares, who established an election integrity unit after obtaining the indictment. Critics accused Miyares of pandering to supporters of former President Donald Trump, who falsely claimed that his defeat was due to election fraud.
Assistant Attorney General James Herring filed a motion ahead of the hearing, alleging that the witness had provided a different version of events than previously recounted. This inconsistency in statements led to the dismissal of the felony charges. White’s lawyer, Zachary Stafford, maintained that the witness simply provided additional information that had not been addressed in the initial investigation.
The state voter registration system, in which changes were made, is being replaced following an audit that questioned its reliability and functionality. Stafford clarified that the witness stated White did not ask him to make the changes now under scrutiny.
Attorney General Miyares’ office declined to comment further, citing the ongoing misdemeanor case against White.
This development highlights the complexities surrounding election-related cases and the importance of witness testimonies. As the trial proceeds, further details may emerge regarding the allegations against White and the potential impact on the 2020 election results in Prince William County, Virginia.
